Liverpool unwilling to sanction Andy Robertson’s Tottenham move at present

Liverpool are not currently prepared to sanction the departure of left-back Andy Robertson to Tottenham Hotspur in this transfer window.

The Athletic revealed on Friday that talks had taken place between the clubs over a potential permanent deal for the Scotland international, who is out of contract this summer.

Tottenham believed the deal was agreed in principle for the move to happen after Liverpool’s Champions League home game against Qarabag on Wednesday but have always been aware it was contingent on Liverpool being able to replace Robertson in their squad, which they have not yet been able to do.

Liverpool have weighed up the interests of Arne Slot’s squad and Robertson and decided they are unwilling to see their 31-year-old vice-captain depart at present.

The Merseyside club considered their options, including the possibility of Kostas Tsimikas returning from his loan spell at Roma to provide cover for first-choice left-back Milos Kerkez. However, that would require Roma’s agreement and the Serie A outfit would need to sign their own replacement. Roma sporting director Frederic Massara said to DAZN, per reports in Italy, that his side was in dialogue with Liverpool over Tsimikas’ future earlier on Sunday.

Tottenham had initially identified Robertson as a free agent target for the summer but brought forward their pursuit after Ben Davies fractured his ankle.

Robertson has not agitated for a move and showcased his professionalism with his performance as a half-time substitute in Liverpool’s 3-2 defeat by Bournemouth on Saturday.

Liverpool now expect the Scot to stay at Anfield until the end of the season when his current deal expires. He’s made 364 appearances for Liverpool since joining from Hull City for £10million in 2017.

Speaking about Robertson’s future after the game at Bournemouth, captain Virgil van Dijk said: “He’s my vice-captain. Robbo is a very important member of our team and I want him to stay but whatever happens, let’s see.”

Slot’s defensive options are already stretched with Conor Bradley and Giovanni Leoni suffering season-ending knee injuries. Ibrahima Konate has missed the past two games following the death of his father, while Joe Gomez was forced off on Saturday after taking a blow to the hip in a collision with goalkeeper Alisson.